updated 12:37 pm EST, Fri November 22, 2013

Companies study potential antitrust hurdles

Comcast is reportedly mulling a potential takeover bid for competitor Time Warner Cable, unnamed sources have toldCNBC. Although Time Warner Cable is said to be considering various buyers, the company is claimed to favor a merger with Comcast if it finalizes the decision to sell.

CNBC, a subsidiary of Comcast, suggests the companies have yet to delve into formal negotiations regarding price or other terms. Comcast is said to be seeking guidance regarding potential regulatory issues and telecommunications considerations, though it is unclear if the company is already talking directly with the Federal Communications Commission and Department of Justice.

MoffettNathanson founder and senior analyst Craig Moffett expects the FCC to bring the greatest challenges to any deal, considering the market share already held by both companies. "It wouldn't be a slam dunk by any means," he cautions.

Comcast and Time Warner Cable have yet to publicly confirm any details of the alleged merger talks.